SUSPENDED MATERIAL OVER THE CENTRAL OREGON CONTINENTAL-SHELF IN MAY 1974 .1. CONCENTRATIONS OF ORGANIC AND INORGANIC COMPONENTS

The thermal structure of shelf waters shows 3 layers divided by a strong seasonal thermocline and a weaker permanent thermocline. The latter slopes upwards towards the coast indicating that upwelling was taking place. Total suspended material concentrations are higher in surface and bottom waters than at mid-depth. Wave and current activity generates the higher concentrations close to the bed both nearshore and over the mud bed of the outer shelf. The concentration of organic matter is highest in the surface and bottom layers. -from Author